Governor Pritzker’s Veto of HB 3445 ROFR Stands – Victory for Consumers!
In May, the Illinois legislature passed a bill (HB 3445) that grants a right of first refusal (ROFR) to incumbent utility monopolies for regional transmission projects. Governor Pritzker vetoed the ROFR section of the bill, and the veto was accepted by the Illinois Assembly.
Governor Pritzker’s Veto of HB 3445 ROFR Stands – Victory for Consumers!
In May, the Illinois legislature passed a bill (HB 3445) that grants a right of first refusal (ROFR) to incumbent utility monopolies for regional transmission projects. Governor Pritzker vetoed the ROFR section of the bill, and the veto was accepted by the Illinois Assembly.
HB 3445 ROFR Would Have Increased Electricity Costs for Illinois Consumers
Ameren Illinois, a utility monopoly, pushed a bill that would result in substantial increases in electricity rates for Illinois families and businesses for decades. HB 3445 includes a right of first refusal – or ROFR – which would protect Ameren Illinois from competition and allow them to charge consumers higher electricity costs.
Gov. Pritzker Stands with Illinois Consumers
The right of first refusal included in HB 3445 would have prevented competition for the development of new regional transmission projects, resulting in significant electricity price inflation for Illinoisans.
Governor J.B. Pritzker vetoed the ROFR section of the bill, with the Governor’s office stating, “We oppose a measure that puts corporate profits over consumers.”
A veto override vote was not taken up by the Illinois Assembly in its November 2023 veto session. The ROFR section of the bill has failed to pass in a victory for consumers.
HB 3445 in the News
Editorial: Illinois lawmakers should sustain Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s veto of this unwarranted gift to Ameren
Chicago Tribune Editorial Board
ICYMI: Chicago Tribune Editorial – ETCC Press Release
Electricity Transmission Competition Coalition
Supporters of vetoed Illinois power line construction bill say the fight isn’t over
The Center Square Illinois
Pritzker says he will veto bill that gives Ameren right of first refusal to build transmission lines
The Center Square Illinois
Lawmakers pass bill giving Ameren monopoly over future transmission lines
Crains Chicago Business
Lawmakers pass legislation to establish monopoly on electric transmission projects in Illinois
The Center Square Illinois
